Journey Back Through Time

Thailand is such a unique country that only by travelling back through a glorious past can one truly begin to understand it.

The Grand Palace is the site of all important royal ceremonies. It contains the greatest concentration of traditional Thai art and architecture.

Over the centuries Thailand's culture has left its mark on the landscape. Thousands of Buddhist temples, the ancient ruins of Isaan (Thailand's North-east) and the magnificent temples and palaces of Sukhothai and Ayuthaya tell of an ancient culture that continues to enchant visitors even today.

Aisawan Thipaya Pavilion, Bang Pa-In Summer Palace. The intricate, multi-tiered roofs and golden spires of this Pavilion reflect the quintessential Thai architectural style.

Thailand has never been colonised by a western power and has retained its independence for over 800 years. Continuing the traditions which have been part of everyday life for centuries, the country has evolved a unique cultural heritage. Many of these traditions and beliefs have been influenced by Buddhism the main religion of Thailand, and and can be seen in both the art and architecture around the country.

The remains of the ancient kingdoms of Lanna and Sukothai can still be seen today. Carefully preserved, they show historical Thailand at it's best, with beautiful sculptures and stone carvings. In northern Thailand, Chiang Mai, capital of the old Lanna Kingdom has many well preserved temples in the city centre, dating back to the 13th Century. The city is also famous for its handicrafts, especially in wood and silver, a legacy from the hilltribes who settled in the northern foothills, bringing their own tribal influences and animistic beliefs into the culture.

An ancient Buddha statue, in one of the country' s famed World Heritage Sites in Sukhothai.

Bangkok, a mere 200 years old, reflects a more modern history typified with the impressive Grand Palace, the Temple of The Emerald Buddha, which houses the most sacred Buddha relic one of Thailand) and the exquisite Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun.)

Thailand has a living culture, constantly evolving and embracing both ancient and modern, where brand new high rise stand beside elaborate temples and street vendors park in front of glitzy new designer shops.

More than any other Asian nation, Thai people love "fun". They have a great love for life and believe in enjoying it whenever they can. In fact, there is a special word for this - "Sanuk". You will see it in the smiling faces of the people, in the myriad of local festivals and in the way in which Thai people always find an excuse to have a party. "Sanuk" - yet another good reason to make Thailand.